Footwear including textile element

ABSTRACT

An article of footwear includes a sole and an upper at least partially formed of an textile element. The textile element includes a yarn matrix having a plurality of interlocked strands oriented in predetermined directions. A structural element may be captured within the matrix at selected locations. In operation, the matrix is stitched onto a temporary substrate. The substrate is removed and the article coupled to a sole structure to form the article of footwear.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to provisional application61/970,070, filed on 25 Mar. 2014 and entitled “Footwear IncludingEmbroidered Element,” the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to footwear and, in particular, to anarticle of footwear with an upper including textile element and a methodof forming the article of footwear.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Athletic footwear such as running shoes is designed for comfort anddurability. Athletic footwear is typically formed of materials havinginsulating, moisture resistant, and/or abrasion-resistant properties.Typical athletic uppers are a laminate of individual layers, with eachlayer imparting different properties to the upper. For example, an upperfor athletic footwear includes an exterior layer, an intermediate layer,and an interior layer joined via an adhesive. The exterior layer isformed from one or more of leather, synthetic leather, rubber, orsynthetic textile. The intermediate layer us formed of foam, and theinterior layer is a textile.

Such conventional athletic footwear, while durable, is heavy since eachlayer of the upper adds weight to the footwear. In addition, this typeof construction interferes with the breathability of the upper,requiring further modification to compensate. Thus, it would bedesirable to provide an upper that is light, while durable for use inperformance footwear.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed toward an article of manufactureincluding a textile element. Specifically, an article of footwearincludes a sole and an upper at least partially formed of an embroideredelement. The textile element includes a yarn matrix having a pluralityof interlocked strands oriented in predetermined directions. Astructural element may be captured within the matrix at selectedlocations. In operation, the matrix is stitched onto a temporarysubstrate. The substrate is removed and the article coupled to a solestructure to form the article of footwear.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an article of footwear including an upper inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a schematic of the stitch pattern of the embroidered elementin accordance with an embodiment of present invention;

FIG. 2B is a cross sectional view of the crossing threads of theembroidered element in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate schematics showing the relationship betweenlayers of the embroidered element;

FIG. 4 illustrates a portion of a footwear upper including theembroidered element, with an inset showing a close-up of the supportthreads;

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing a process of forming the embroideredelement;

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate footwear uppers including the embroideredelement in accordance with embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up of the vamp of the footwear upper shown inFIG. 7.

Like numerals have been utilized to identify like components throughoutthe figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Turning to FIG. 1, the article of manufacture is an article of footwear10 including an upper 105 and a sole structure 110. The footwear 10defines several regions corresponding with various parts of a foot.Specifically, the footwear defines a rear footwear region 115 generallycorresponding with the rear of the foot (e.g., the hindfoot includingthe heel); an intermediate footwear region 120 disposed forward the rearregion and generally corresponding to the midfoot (e.g., the arched(instep) and ball areas of the foot); and a forward footwear region 125disposed forward of intermediate region and generally corresponding tothe forefoot (e.g., the toes of the foot).

The upper 105 includes a heel 130, a lateral side 135, a medial side140, an instep 145, and a toe cage or box 150. The heel 145 forms a rearportion of upper 10 and is generally configured to extend along the heelof the foot. The lateral side 135 spans through a longitudinal length ofthe article footwear 10, being configured to extend along the lateralside of the foot. Similarly, the medial side 140 spans a longitudinallength of footwear, being configured to extend along the medial side ofthe foot. The instep 145, positioned between the lateral side and themedial side, extends along the instep of the foot. Finally, the toe cage150 defines the forward area of the upper 105, being configured to housethe toes of the foot.

The upper 105 forms a cavity that receives the foot. Specifically, theheel 130, lateral side 135, medial side 140, instep 145, and toe cage150 cooperate to define an interior cavity into which a foot is insertedby way of an access opening or collar 155. The upper may further includea tongue 160 and lace connections 165 (e.g., eyelets) that receive alace 170.

At least a portion of the upper 105 is formed of a textile elementincluding a yarn matrix. The yarn matrix is a self-supporting,embroidered structure including a plurality of interlocking yarn rowsoriented in predetermined directions. Referring to FIG. 2A, theself-supporting, embroidered structure 200 includes a plurality ofcrossing yarns 205 (also called binding yarns) oriented in apredetermine pattern (e.g., in rows 230A, 230B, 230C). Each crossingyarn 205 includes a pair of component strands that interlock at selectedlocations along the length of the yarn. Specifically, referring to FIG.2A, a crossing yarn 205 includes a first or upper strand 215A and asecond or lower strand 215B that is generally aligned (e.g., verticallyaligned) with the first strand. A strand in intended to include singlefiber, filament, or monofilament, as well as an assemblage of textilefibers having a high ratio of length to diameter and normally used as aunit (e.g. includes slivers, roving, single yarns, plies yarns, cords,braids, ropes, etc.).

Referring to FIG. 2B, the crossing yarn 205 includes a first strand 215Aand a second strand 215B coupled at selected locations along the lengthof the yarn. Specifically, the strands 215A, 215B are coupled via astitch 225, i.e., an interlocking structure that locks the strandstogether. By way of example, lockstitch (where the one strand wraps theother strand) is utilized. A lockstitch effectively secures the strandsto each other, preventing unraveling of crossing yarn 205. While aparticular lockstitch is illustrated (an over-lock stitch), it should beunderstood that different means of interlocking may be utilized toprovide desired load extension characteristics to the textile structure.For example, other stitches such as a tatami stitch, a triaxial fillstitch, satin stitch, running stitch, chain stitch, etc. may beutilized.

The stitches 225 may be disposed at any predetermined location along thestructure. Typically, the stitches 225 are disposed are regularintervals along the length of the crossing yarn 205. The distancebetween adjacent stitches is referred to as the stitch length SL. Thestrands 215A, 215B are substantially aligned with each other along theyarn length. The stitch length may be any distance suitable for itsdescribed purpose (to form a self-supporting embroidered element and/orfootwear upper). For example, the stitch length may range from about 0.1mm to about 5 mm (e.g., 0.5 mm to 4 mm).

By controlling the number of stitches in the crossing yarn 205, theoverall stitch density of the embroidered structure 205 may becontrolled to affect the overall properties of the structure (and thusthe footwear upper). For example, the crossing yarn 205 and/or theself-supporting, embroidered structure 200 may include a high stitchdensity, a medium stitch density, or a low stitch density. In a highdensity stitch configuration, the strands 215A, 215B of the crossingyarn 205 include a stitch every 0.20 mm-1.50 mm (e.g., 1 mm). In amedium density stitch configuration, the strands 215A, 215B are stitchedevery 1.60-3.50 mm (e.g., 2 mm). A low stitch density includes stitchesevery 3.60-5.00 mm (e.g., 4 mm). Accordingly, stitch density refers notonly to the density of stitches in a crossing yarn 205, but also thenumber of stitches in a predetermined area of the embroidered structure200 (e.g., number of stitches per square millimeter, centimeter, etc.).In a preferred embodiment, the stitch length is less than 5 mm. Stitchlengths of greater than 5 mm may introduce failures during the stitchingprocess.

Each crossing yarn 205 (i.e., each strand 215A, 215B) may be formed ofany material suitable for its described purpose (i.e., to create anembroidered structure and/or a footwear upper). By way of example, eachthread component may be formed of nylon, polyester, polyacrylic,polypropylene, polyethylene, metal, silk, cellulosic fibers (e.g.,cotton), elastomers, etc. The strands 215A, 215B forming the crossingyarn 205 may be formed of the same or different materials. For example,the first strand 215A may be formed of a first material (e.g., nylon)while the second thread component 215B may be formed of a secondmaterial (e.g., polyester). In an embodiment, both strands of thecrossing yarns 205 are formed of nylon (e.g., M60 nylon).

Additionally, the crossing yarn 205 may include fusible or non-fusiblematerial. In an embodiment, the crossing yarn 205 (i.e., one or morestrands 215A, 215B of the crossing yarn) may include thermoplasticpolymers capable of transitioning to a liquid upon heating to apredetermined melting or glass transition temperature, and thenrecrystallizing when heat is removed to form a hardened structure (i.e.,the crossing yarns are capable of fusing, combining with adjacentfusible materials or encapsulating adjacent non-fusible materials). Byway of example, a strand 215A, 215B may be a filament of low-meltmaterial (e.g., low-melt polyester having a melting point of less than100° C.). By way of further example, the crossing yarn may include asheath core or double covered yarn, including a sheath or covering offusible material and a core including non-fusible material.

The crossing yarn 205 may further include a high tensile material, i.e.,a material having a tensile strength of at least 1000 MPa. By way ofexample, strands 215A, 215B of the crossing yarn 205 may comprise anultra-high molecular polyethylene (e.g., DYNEEMA, available from RoyalDSM, Netherlands). Other high tensile strength materials include carbonfiber, fiberglass, aramids (e.g., para-aramid fibers and meta-aramidfibers) (KEVLAR, available from DuPont or TWARON, available from TejinAramid) and liquid crystal polymer fibers (VECTRAN, available fromCelanese Acetate, LLC or ZYLON, available from Toyobo Corporation).

The diameter of the strands 215A, 215B may possess any diameter suitablefor their described purpose (i.e., to form a self-supporting embroideredstructure/form a footwear upper). By way of example, the threadcomponents may be from about 0.003 mm to about 5 mm (e.g., 0.05 mm to 1mm) in diameter.

As noted above, the structure 200 may be formed via a modifiedembroidery process in which crossing yarns are selectively fixed to atemporary substrate. Briefly, the temporary substrate is positioned on aframe. The first strand 215A disposed on a first side of a temporarysubstrate and the second thread component 215B is disposed on a secondside of the temporary substrate such that it is generally aligned withthe first thread component. At predetermined intervals, the secondthread component 215B passes through the temporary substrate 220, overthe first thread component 215A, and back to through the substrate 220to form a stitch 225. The frame is repositioned and the processcontinues, forming a row or run along the temporary substrate. Theresulting yarn 205 includes strands generally aligned on opposite sidesof the temporary substrate. Once the innermost crossing yarn rows areformed, additional overstitch or enclosing rows may be stitched into thetemporary substrate such that the overstitch strands cross over theirrelated innermost strands. This process may continue to form multiplelayers of crossing yarns in the matrix. Once the desired number of rowsis created, the temporary substrate is then removed, resulting in aself-supporting structure.

The embroidered structure 200 may include crossing yarns 205 ordered ina predetermined pattern. For example, the crossing yarns 205 may beprovided in a matrix including a plurality of intersecting and/oroverlapping strands 215A, 215B. Referring back to FIG. 2A, thematrix/structure 200 includes a first line or row or run 230A ofcrossing yarns 205 oriented along a first direction (e.g., generallyvertically from the perspective of FIG. 2A) and a second row or run 230Bof crossing threads oriented along a second 230B (e.g., generallyhorizontally from the perspective of FIG. 2A). Accordingly, a grid isformed, with the first row 230A being oriented substantiallyorthogonally to the second row 230B within the matrix.

Additionally, a third row or run 230C oriented along a third directionmay be provided. The third row 230C defines a generally arcuate linehaving a predetermined radius of curvature. As shown, the third row 230Cmay include segments that bisect the grid blocks defined by the first230A and second 230B rows. In other words, the third row or run 203C maybe oriented at an angle with respect to each of the first row 230A andthe second row 230B. In an embodiment, the angle of orientation may fallwithin the range of about 5° to about 90°.

The matrix may further include a fourth row or run 230D that forms azigzag pattern within the structure 200.

As noted above, the embroidered structure 200 in accordance with thepresent invention includes multiple layers. That is, any of the crossingyarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C (i.e., any of strands 215A, 215B) mayenclose/overlap or be enclosed/overlapped by any of the other rows. Byway of example, and referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, the firstcrossing element row 230A may define a base or innermost layer of thematrix, being placed first on the temporary substrate 300 such that itdoes not overlap any other row. Subsequently, the second crossingelement row 230B is placed on the temporary substrate such that thefirst strand 215A of the second row passes over the first strand of thefirst row 230A. Similarly, the second strand 215B of the second row 230Bpasses over the second strand of the first row 230A. Similarly, thethird row 230C may be formed after the formation of the second row 230Bsuch that it passes over each of the first row 230A and the second row.

The number of layers formed in the embroidered structure 200 is notparticularly limited. In a preferred embodiment, the structure 200includes a first or base layer and a second or overpass layer formedover the base layer. Additionally, a third, overstitch layer may beformed at selected locations within the structure 200 (i.e., thestructure includes areas of three layers and areas of two layers).

As seen in the figure, the stitch 225 of any enclosing row may bealigned with or offset from the stitches of an enclosed row. Similarly,the stitches of an enclosing row may align with or be offset from thecrossing yarns 205 of an enclosed row.

With this configuration the properties (e.g., tensile strength) of theembroidered structure may be customized for a particular use. Forexample, the strength of an area within the embroidered structure 200may be modified by increasing the density of crossing yarns 205 and/orincreasing the density of stitches 225 within the area. Specifically, ahigh density area would possess higher tensile/burst strength and lowerbreathability, while a low density area would possess a lowertensile/burst strength and higher breathability.

The process according to the present invention further permits theincorporation of structural, support, or compressible elements withinthe embroidered structure 200. Typically, these elements are notdirectly stitched into the matrix, but are instead captured within it.Stated another way, these elements are not yarns or strands stitchedtogether, but are separate components secured to the embroideredstructure by the yarns or strands. A structural element is an elementdesigned to help carry the tensile load and/or disperse the forcesapplied to the upper during normal use. Referring the FIG. 4, showingembroidered structure portion defining a medium stitch density area 405and a low stitch density area 410, a plurality of structural elements415 are disposed at selected locations within the structure. Eachstructural element 415 includes a plurality of high tensile strengthstrands 420A, 420B, 420C such as aramid strands (e.g., KEVLAR, availablefrom DuPont). The number of strands 420A, 420B, 420C forming thestructural element 415 is not limited, and may be selected in light ofthe desired level of support.

The structural element 415 is incorporated into the embroideredstructure 200 by capturing the strands between structure layers. Thatis, each of the structural element strands 420A, 420B, 420C is at leastpartially captured within the embroidered structure 200 such that atleast a portion of the strand is secured in position by a crossingelement 205. In operation, the structural element 415 (i.e., the strands420A, 420B, 420C) may be placed on one surface of temporary substrateand the rows 230A, 230B, 230C formed as described above. As a result,the structural element strands 420A, 420B, 420C are enclosed by thematrix, with the first 230A and second 230B rows of crossing yarn 205passing over the structural element strands 230A, 230B, 230C (i.e.,first crossing yarn strand 215A travels over one side of the structuralelement strands and the second crossing yarn strand 215B crossing overthe opposite side of the structure element strands).

The structural element 415 may, furthermore, be enclosed within a tube,channel, or pocket 425 formed integrally with the embroidered structure200. Specifically, the structural element 415 may be secured within theembroidered structure 200 by crossing yarns 205 that enclose theelement. Referring to the expanded view in FIG. 4, a plurality ofchannel yarns 405 are arranged along the length of the structuralelement 415 (i.e., the plurality of structural element strands 420A,420B, 420C) in a close side-by-side relationship such that the crossingyarn strands 215A, 215B are oriented generally parallel to each other,with the strand direction being generally orthogonal to the longitudinalaxis of the structural element strands. Each channel yarn 405 includesfirst and second channel strands secured along its ends and unsecuredbetween its ends to define a channel or pocket operable to receive thestructural element. By way of example, a stem stitch may be utilized toform the channel or pocket 425.

The stitches 225 are positioned adjacent the lateral sides of thestructural element 215, thereby forming the channel, tube, or pocket 425that houses the structural element. The channel 425 secures thestructural element 415 within the embroidered structure 200 such thatthe position of the structural element remains fixed. Additionally, thechannel 425, covering the entire length of the structural element 415,enclosing it therein, serves to protect the structural element from theambient environment (UV radiation, moisture, etc.). For example, aramid(e.g., KEVLAR) is UV and water sensitive. Accordingly, enclosing thearamid strands protects the strands, improving their longevity.

A structural element may further include textiles operable to impartimproved tensile strength to the upper. By way of example, a nonwovenpanel may be positioned within the eyelet row to reinforce the eyeletholes.

A support element is a component of the footwear upper operable toprovide support to the wearer. Footwear often includes brace elementssuch as plastic splints configured to stabilize the ankle of the wearer(to prevent inversion and/or eversion) of the foot. Additional heelsupports (e.g., heel counters) are incorporated to secure and limitmovement of the heel during use of the shoe. Finally, other protectiveitems may be incorporated such as toe covers. In general, these elementsare formed of an elastomer such as thermoplastic polyurethane. Theseelements may be incorporated into the embroidered structure in a mannersimilar to that of the structural element. That is, the support elementmay be positioned on the temporary substrate and captured within one ormore layers defined by the crossing yarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C.Additionally, a channel or pocket 425 formed of crossing yarns 205 mayfurther secure the position of the support element, fixing its locationwithin the structure 200.

A compression element is capable of absorbing impact forces. By way ofexample, a compressible element may be formed of foam (e.g., ethylenevinyl acetate foam). The compression element may be located within theupper at any desired location, e.g., along the collar of the upper,within the heel cup, or within the tongue of the shoe. The compressionelement may be incorporated into the embroidered structure 200 in amanner similar to that of the structural element. That is, the comfortelement may be positioned on the temporary substrate and captured withinone or more layers formed by the crossing yarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C.Additionally, a channel 425 formed of crossing yarns 205 may furthersecure the position of the support element, fixing its location withinthe structure 200.

The formation process 500 of the embroidered structure 200 is explainedin greater detail with reference to FIG. 5. At step 505, the temporarysubstrate 300 is provided, being secured to a support frame. Thetemporary substrate 300 is formed of material that is removable in amanner that does not damage the embroidered structure 200. In anembodiment, the temporary substrate 300 is removed chemically, e.g., viadissolution. Dissolvable substrate materials are selected to minimize orprevent any harm to the physical properties of the materials forming theembroidered structure 200 during the dissolution process. By way ofexample, the temporary substrate 300 may be water soluble, being formedof, e.g., polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, or alginate.Accordingly, the dissolution medium is an aqueous medium such as waterat elevated temperature (e.g., 50° C.). Alternatively, the temporarysubstrate may be soluble in an organic solvent such as acetone (e.g., anacetate-based substrate).

At Step 510, any of the structural elements 415, the support elements,or the compression elements may be placed on the temporary substrate300. Each element is place such that it corresponds to the properlocation of the finished upper (collar, heel cup, toe cage, etc.). Forexample, the structural element 415 may be positioned on the temporarysubstrate 300 such that the longitudinal axis of the structural elementgenerally aligns with the tensile load direction of the footwear upper.It is important to note that while the structural, support, orcompression elements are discussed as being placed directly on thesubstrate 300, it should be understood that they may be added at anypoint during the embroidery process (e.g., after the base layer ofcrossing yarns 205 is secured to the temporary substrate).

At Step 515, the crossing yarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C are formed.Specifically, the crossing yarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C (including firststrand 215A and second strand 215B) are applied to the temporarysubstrate 300 as described above (Step 415A).

At Step 525, the temporary substrate 300 is removed, e.g., viadissolution. By way of example, the temporary substrate 300 may beplaced in a bath of dissolving agent such as water (e.g., water heatedto a specified temperature (e.g., 50°), steam, etc.). By way of furtherexample, the dissolving agent may be applied to the temporary substrate300 via spray coating, etc. The substrate removal process may furtherinvolve the application of heat or mechanical agitation effective to aidin dissolution of the substrate without harming the embroideredstructure 200. Once removed, a self-supporting embroidered structureresults.

At Step 530, the self-supporting, embroidered structure 200 may undergoadditional processing. For example, if fusible strands are present inthe structure, the structure 200 may be heated to induce fusion. Oncecooled, the fused fibers will stiffen the matrix, reducing itsresiliency. Alternatively, the embroidered structure may be secured toanother structure to form a composite structure. For example, theself-supporting embroidered structure 200 may be secured to a woven,knitted, or non-woven textile. The textile may form a portion of theupper, are may define an additional (exterior) layer within thestructure. By way of specific example, the textile may define the borderof the upper, providing a narrow band capable of being secured to thesole structure. Alternatively, the textile may be a decorative trimpiece.

Additionally, a thermoplastic skin layer may be bonded to theembroidered structure 200 to provide water resistance and/or abrasionprotection. In general, the skin layer is softened to infiltrate thefibers of the yarn matrix, then cooled, securing the skin layer to theupper.

Finally, in Step 535, either the resulting composite textile structureor the self-supporting embroidered structure 200 is secured to a solestructure to form the article of footwear.

Examples of footwear uppers formed utilizing the process explained aboveis provided in FIGS. 6 and 7. Referring to FIG. 6, the footwear upper600 includes a body 605 and a tongue 610, each including an embroideredstructure 200 defining a high stitch density areas 615A, medium stitchdensity areas 615B, and low stitch density areas 615C. As explainedabove, areas 615C of low stitch density possess lower tensile strength,but possess higher breathability properties since the embroideredstructure possesses a generally open, mesh-like configuration. Asillustrated, low stitch density areas may be located along the toe cage,along the lateral side 617A and the medial side 617B, and within theheel cup 618. The medium stitch density areas 615B surround each of thelow stitch density areas 615C, which, in turn, are surrounded by highstitch density areas 615A that extend to the inner perimeter 620A andouter perimeter 620B of the body 605 and the perimeter 625 of tongue610. As illustrated, the lateral side 617A stitch pattern is a mirrorimage medial side 617B stitch pattern (as divided by body centerline C).

The footwear upper 600 further includes a plurality of eyelets disposedat selected locations along the body 605. Specifically, a plurality ofspaced lateral eyelets 630A is oriented along the interior bodyperimeter 620B (proximate tongue opening). Similarly, a plurality ofspaced medial eyelets 630B is oriented along the interior body perimeter620B (proximate tongue opening).

A series of structural elements 415 are further included in the footwearupper. Specifically, a structural element 415 (e.g., one or more hightension strength strands captured in a channel or pocket 425) isassociated with each eyelet of the plurality of eyelets 630A, 630B. Asshown, each structural element is generally aligned with the directionof the tensile load, encircling each eyelet and extending from interiorbody perimeter 620B to exterior body perimeter 620A. Additionally, thebody 605 further includes a structural element 415 running from thefirst eyelet 635A one the lateral side 617A around the centerline C ofthe heel cup 618 and to the first eyelet 635B on the medial side 617B.

Additionally, the footwear upper 600 includes one or more compressionelements 640 disposed at selected locations. Specifically, a compressionelement 640 is positioned within the heel cup 618, proximate the bodyinterior perimeter 620B (i.e., along the collar of the upper). As shownthe compression element extends from the lateral side 617A of the heelcup to the medial side 617B of the heel cup. Additionally, the tongue605 includes a compression element 640 operable to provide cushioning tothe instep of the wearer.

The structural element 415, as well as the cushioning element 640, maybe incorporated in the footwear upper as described above.

FIG. 7 illustrates a footwear upper 700 in accordance with an embodimentof the invention. The upper 700 includes a body 705 having a centerlineC defining a lateral body side 710A and a medial body side 710B. Thebody, furthermore, defines a first or sole-facing perimeter 715A and asecond or eyelet perimeter 715B, which, in turn, defines tongue opening720. A plurality of eyelets 722 are disposed along the second perimeter715B, being formed on each of the lateral and medial sides. In contrastwith the embodiment of FIG. 6, the footwear upper 700 of FIG. 7 includesa forward embroidered portion 725A and a rearward non-embroidered(textile) portion 725B connected via, e.g., stitching. The embroideryportion 725A generally spans the forefoot and midfoot areas of the foot,while the non-embroidered portion 725B generally spans the heel area ofthe foot.

The embroidered portion includes an embroidery structure 200 asdescribed above, including a high stitch density area 727A, a mediumstitch density area 727B, and a low stitch density area 727C. Thelateral quarter 730A and the medial quarter 730B, furthermore, eachincludes a yarn matrix similar to that described above, having a firstcrossing yarn row 230A oriented general orthogonal to a second crossingyarn row 230B, which are each intersected by a generally arcuate thirdcrossing yarn row 230C. Within the quarters 730A, 730B, the longitudinalaxis of the first crossing yarn row 230A is oriented generallyorthogonal to the edges of the first 715A and second 715B bodyperimeters, while the longitudinal axis of the second crossing yarn row230B is oriented generally parallel to the perimeters.

As best seen in FIG. 8, the embroidered structure 200 in the vamp 735includes a first crossing yarn row 230A, a second crossing yarn row230B, and a third crossing yarn row. Similarly to the aboveconfiguration, the first crossing yarn row 230A is oriented generallyorthogonal to the first 715A and second 715B body perimeters. Each ofthe second crossing yarn row 230B and the third crossing yarn row 230Care generally arcuate. The embroidered structure 200 further includestension yarns disposed at selected locations and configured to dispersetensile load on the upper 700. Specifically, the embroidered structureincludes a first set 740 of tension yarns extending from the eyelet 722to the first body perimeter 715A to define a generally straight row anda second set 745 of tension yarns extending forward from each eyelet 722to the first body perimeter 715A to define a generally arcuate row. Eachyarn of the sets 740, 745 includes a first strand 215A and a secondstrand 215B as described above. The strands 215A, 215B may be hightensile strength strands (i.e., strands having a tensile strength of atleast 1000 MPa such as ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene) or maybe low tensile strength strands (e.g., nylon). In an embodiment, thetension yarns form the innermost layer of the embroidered structure.

The yarn matrix of the quarters 730A, 730B may further include pluralityof individual overstitch strands 750 extending from each eyelet 722 tothe first body perimeter 715A. Each strand may be configured to furtherimprove the strength of the embroidered structure by compensating forlesser tensile forces applied to the shoe during use. That is, eachstrand may extend from the eyelet 722 at a predetermined angle thataligns with the expected axis of tensile load applied to the upper. Inan embodiment, the overstitch strands 750 forms the outermost layer ofthe embroidered structure.

As with the above embodiment, the embroidered structure 200 may furtherinclude a structural element to further compensate for forces applied tothe eyelets during operation. By way of example, the upper 700 mayinclude a reinforcing structure formed of a nonwoven textile that isincorporated into the embroidered structure 200.

The textile portion 725B may comprise materials utilized in conventionalfootwear. By way of example, it may comprise a knitted or woven fabricouter layer, a foam intermediate layer, and a knitted or woven fabricinterior layer.

The above described invention provides a self-supporting embroideredelement. This is in contrast with conventional uppers utilizingembroidery techniques, which require a substrate or foundation layer towhich one or more strands are secured.

Utilizing the above invention, it is possible to create an article offootwear having an upper with predetermined physical properties,including, but not limited to, stretch, breathability, and abrasionresistance. During walking, running, or other ambulatory activities,forces induced in footwear may tend to stretch upper in variousdirections, with forces concentrated at various locations. The strandsare located to function as structural elements in the upper, e.g. topermit, limit, or resist stretching in various directions or reinforcelocations where forces are concentrated.

While the invention has been described in detail and with reference tospecific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in theart that various changes and modifications can be made therein withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope thereof. For example, the materialsforming the crossing yarns 205 may be any suitable for its describedpurpose. The yarns may be selectively utilized to modify properties offootwear 10 including stretch, stretch-resistance, air permeabilitywear-resistance, etc. Additionally, the yarns may be selectively placedwithin the upper to provide specific areas of upper with desiredproperties. For example, a particular material/structure may beconcentrated in areas of the upper that experience wear, such as inforefoot region. If utilized for wear-resistance, the yarns may beformed of materials that exhibit high wear-resistance properties. Otherfunctional yarns may be utilized such as those capable of transportingmoisture and thus of absorbing sweat and moisture may be utilized. Theyarns may be electrically conducting, self-cleaning, thermallyregulating and insulating, flame resistant, and/or UV-absorbing.

In addition, fusible yarns may be utilized. Fusible yarns soften whenexposed to heat of a predetermined temperature, hardening once cooled(e.g., at ambient conditions). Fusible yarns are formed of thermoplasticpolymer material, such as polyurethane, nylon, polyester, andpolyolefin. Fusible yarns may also include a mixture of a thermoplasticyarn and polyester or nylon. The structure of such yarns may include athermoplastic yarn surrounded by a non-thermoplastic yarn; anon-thermoplastic yarn surrounded by thermoplastic yarn; and acombination of thermoplastic and non-thermoplastic yarns. After beingheated to the melting temperature, the thermoplastic yarn fuses with thenon-thermoplastic yarn (e.g. polyester or nylon), stiffening the textilematerial. In order to improve the bond between the thermoplasticmaterial and the yarn, the yarn's surface is texturized. Thethermoplastic material melts at least partially in the process and fuseswith the yarn. After pressing, the embroidered structure 200 is cooledso that the bond is hardened and fixed.

The strands of the crossing yarns 205 may possess any dimensions(size/shape) suitable for their described purpose. The density of thestitches 225 may also be selected to modify the characteristics of theupper. For example, areas with relatively high concentrations ofstitches 225 may flex to a lesser degree than areas with relatively lowconcentrations of stitches. Similarly, areas with relatively highconcentrations of stitches may be less air-permeable than areas withrelatively low concentrations of stitches.

The athletic footwear includes running shoes, baseball shoes, basketballshoes, cross-training shoes, cycling shoes, football shoes, tennisshoes, soccer shoes, walking shoes, and hiking boots, etc. Footwearstyles may further include non-athletic styles such as dress shoes,loafers, sandals, etc.

The embroidered structure 200 may be formed utilizing any suitableembroidery apparatus or process, whether by machine or hand. In machineembroidery, a variety of conventional embroidery machines may beutilized to form embroidered structure 200, and the embroidery machinesmay be programmed to embroider specific patterns or designs from one ora plurality of threads. In general, an embroidery machine forms patternsor designs by repeatedly securing a thread to various locations suchthat portions of the thread extend between the locations and arevisible. Conventional embroidery machines may form patterns or designson temporary substrate by forming satin-stitches, running-stitches, orfill-stitches, each of which may utilize a lock-stitch to secure threadto base layer. Satin-stitches are a series of zigzag-shaped stitchesformed closely together. Running-stitches extend between two points andare often used for fine details, outlining, and underlay. Fill-stitchesare series of running stitches formed closely together to form differentpatterns and stitch directions, and fill-stitches are often utilized tocover relatively large areas.

Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modificationsand variations of this invention provided they come within the scope ofthe appended claims and their equivalents. It is to be understood thatterms such as “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “rear”, “side”, “height”,“length”, “width”, “upper”, “lower”, “interior”, “exterior”, and thelike as may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and donot limit the present invention to any particular orientation orconfiguration.

We claim:
 1. An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure; and anupper secured to the sole structure, the upper comprising: a firstcrossing yarn extending in a first direction to define a first length,the first crossing yarn including a first strand and a second strand,the first and second strands being interlocked at selected locationsalong the first length; a second crossing yarn extending in a seconddirection to define a second length, the second crossing yarn includinga first strand and a second strand, the first and second strands beinginterlocked at selected locations along the second length, wherein thefirst strand of the second crossing yarn passes over the first strand ofthe first crossing yarn, and wherein the second strand of the secondcrossing yarn row passes over the second strand of the first crossingyarn row.
 2. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein: thestrands of the first crossing yarn are interlocked in a plurality oflocations; the strands of the first crossing yarn are interlocked via astitch; the distance between adjacent stitches defines a stitch length;and the stitch length is less than five mm.
 3. The article of footwearaccording to claim 1, further comprising a third crossing yarn extendingin a third direction, the third crossing yarn including a first strandand a second strand, the first and second strands being interlocked atselected locations along the third length.
 4. The article of footwearaccording to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first or secondcrossing yarns comprises a fiber having a tensile strength of at least1000 MPa.
 5. The article of footwear according to claim 1, furthercomprising an element incorporated into the upper, the element selectedfrom the group consisting of a structural element, a support element,and a compression element.
 6. The article of footwear according to claim1, further comprising a plurality of channel strands oriented inside-by-side relation, each channel strand being secured along its endsand unsecured between the ends to define a channel operable to receive astructural element.
 7. The article of footwear according to claim 1,wherein the first direction is generally orthogonal to the seconddirection.
 8. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein: theupper further comprises a lace eyelet and a sole-facing edge; the upperfurther comprises a third crossing yarn having a third length, the thirdcrossing yarn including a first strand and a second strand interlockedat selected locations along the third length; the third crossing yarnextends from the lace eyelet to the sole facing edge to define anarcuate run along the upper.
 9. The article of footwear according toclaim 1 further comprising a compressible element oriented between thefirst and second strands of the first crossing yarn.
 10. An article offootwear comprising: a sole structure; and an upper secured to the solestructure, the upper comprising a self-supporting embroidered elementincluding a first area having a first stitch density and a second areahaving a second stitch density, wherein the first stitch density isgreater than the second stitch density.
 11. The article of footwearaccording to claim 1 wherein the area having the first stitch densitysurrounds the area having the second stitch density.
 12. The article offootwear of claim 1, further comprising a third area possessing a thirdstitch density, the third stitch density being less than each of thefirst stitch density and the second stitch density.